Dementia type diagnosis: Memory loss symptom health care differences

Researchers have found that there are similarities and differences in all dementias that may require the same or different therapies or medication treatments. Testing and case studies have shown that the development of varied symptoms, the genetic make up and other medical conditions and history may require different treatment at fluctuating times.

Symptoms happen differently, not at all, or at varied times for each type of dementia. Caregivers can know first hand what to expect in the present and future in order to be able to communicate, interact and plan for the best possible quality care for the loved one or client.

Evaluation should be ongoing.

It matters that the professionals have the correct information in order to help determine the type of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, Vascular Dementia, Lewy Bodies, Dementia from Parkinson’s or Frontotemporal. Patients, family and paid caregivers need to provide the health care team with details on symptoms, reactions to medications, all present and past health issues, and family and personal health history.

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer's is a neurological disorder caused by a tau protein that hardens the memory tracks and storage cells. The track knots and breaks preventing memory from traveling to the synapses, (which may also be damaged), and throughout the brain. Once the symptoms start, it is ongoing with progression.

Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Bodies are abnormal proteins that deposit throughout the brain causing deterioration of brain function by destroying dopamine and acetylcholine. Loss of these important message distributing chemicals that are important to efficient brain function results in both unique, and similar symptoms to other dementias.

Lewy Body dementia symptoms sometimes include on again, off again occurrences and levels of dementia symptoms. Over time, two or more symptoms distinguished as Lewy Bodies will appear, such as, hallucinations with severe sensitivity to hallucinogenic medications. Out of control motor skills similar to Parkinson’s can lead to misdiagnosis.

Parkinson’s with dementia

Parkinson's disease does not always lead to dementia. However, tremors and out of control motor skills are a symptom of both Parkinson's with dementia and Lewy bodies, sometimes leading to misdiagnosis. Parkinson’s is mostly a disease of muscle and motor control.

Vascular Dementia

Vascular Dementia is caused by series of mini or major strokes that cut off oxygen and nutrition from the brain. This causes damage to the neurons and neurotransmitters.

Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal Dementia is most common for personality and inappropriate or compulsive behaviors that are not normal for that person. A person with affliction in the frontal and temporal lobes of the cortex most often experience euphoria and or apathy. As with many dementias, there is a decline in personal hygiene and lack of awareness. There are several forms of Frontotemporal dementia involving communication problems and motor skill damage.
Knowledge can alleviate the stress and frustration for the patient and for the caregivers.

Mixed Dementia

Recent research has found that, in some persons, there may be more than one type of dementia happening in the brain.

Ongoing education and preparation is imperitive.

By educating family members and caregivers, and professional health care providers, persons with dementia can get better quality of life. Planning is essential for financial and care issues. Home security can be insured as modifications can be made to coincide with the changes in capabilities of the person with the diagnosis.